Recruiting is front and center in game between Florida and LSU

One of the biggest benefits of today's game between No. 4 LSU and No. 10 Florida is the chance to impress big-time, visiting recruits with a big-game, nationally-televised atmosphere.

Some of the nation's top recruits are expected to be in attendance at Ben Hill Griffin Stadium today, and current Gator players said it's the kind of environment that can heavily influence a young man's decision.

"It’s big,'' fullback Hunter Joyer said. "They come in here in the Swamp, and it’s sold out and packed and just rocking. It gets you fired up and makes you want to come play here."

Joyer, the Wesley Chapel alum, has fond memories of attending games growing up.

"I came to plenty of games because my brother always wanted to come here too, and he was being recruited a little bit,'' he said. "So I came to all the Florida Auburn games, Florida LSU games, Florida Florida State. I’ve been to all the big games pretty much and got to experience those."

Florida quarterback Jeff Driskel said today's game is the kind of atmosphere top recruits want to see when visiting.

"It’s definitely a big game, I’m sure there are going to be recruits all over the place this weekend,'' Driskel said. "I know if I was in high school, I would be at this game. So it’s definitely fun to attend games like this and see the atmosphere. This is really what the SEC’s all about."

Florida coach Will Muschamp said games like today's help coaches in recruiting as well.

"You'd love to coach and play at a place like Florida because of a game like this,'' Muschamp said. "It's a national game, it always is. Two of the most prominent programs in the country over the last few and 10, 12 years, as far as playing in national championships and winning national championships."

About the blog

Florida Gators fans, welcome to the Gator Report for all your news about Gators football, basketball and all UF sports. It's written by University of Florida beat writer Antonya English and the staff of the Tampa Bay Times. We invite your comments and participation.